Concerns Over Pakistan's Missile Capabilities Raised by US Intelligence Chief
US Intelligence Assessment Highlights Missile Threats
During a recent Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence, expressed concerns regarding Pakistan's missile development program. She indicated that it could potentially lead to the creation of long-range systems capable of targeting the United States. Gabbard emphasized the increasing global threats, stating, “Pakistan's long-range ballistic missile development could potentially include ICBMs with a range capable of striking the homeland.”
In her presentation of the intelligence community's annual threat assessment, she pointed out the expanding missile capabilities of various nations. Gabbard noted that state actors are broadening their risks by pursuing advancements in both kinetic and cyber warfare. She reassured that the United States' secure nuclear deterrent continues to protect the homeland against strategic threats. However, she warned that countries like Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, and Pakistan are actively developing a range of advanced missile delivery systems, both nuclear and conventional, that could reach the US.
Gabbard projected a significant increase in missile threats to the US, estimating that by 2035, the number of missiles aimed at the homeland could exceed 16,000, a sharp rise from the current estimate of over 3,000.
She identified China and Russia as the most persistent threats, while noting that North Korea already has missiles capable of reaching US territory and is expanding its arsenal. Regarding Iran, Gabbard mentioned that the country has demonstrated technology that could facilitate the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) in the future. “The IC assesses that Iran has previously demonstrated space launch and other technology it could use to begin to develop a militarily viable ICBM before 2035 should Tehran attempt to pursue that capability,” she stated.
On the topic of the ongoing conflict with Iran, Gabbard described recent US military actions as strategically successful but clarified that her statements were based on intelligence assessments rather than personal opinions. “I’d like to remind those who are watching that what I am briefing here today conveys the intelligence community’s assessment of the threats facing US citizens, our homeland, and our interests, not my personal views or opinions,” she remarked.
According to the intelligence assessment, while Iran's conventional military capabilities have been largely diminished and its strategic position significantly weakened, the regime remains intact and may attempt to rebuild its military over time. Lawmakers expressed concerns regarding the report's omissions, particularly the lack of references to foreign election interference. Senator Mark Warner commented, “I don’t believe this omission means that the threat has disappeared. It means that the intelligence community is no longer being allowed to speak honestly about it.”